Noliwe Rooks

Jill Tucker, a K-12 education reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, Noliwe Rooks, chair of Africana Studies at Brown University, and Michael J. Petrilli, president of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, delve into the significant implications of budget cuts to the Department of Education. They discuss the historical context of these cuts, their impact on local schools, and the troubling future for civil rights oversight. The conversation also critiques the tension between federal and local control, emphasizing the need for a focus on educational equity and community-driven solutions.

Noliwe Rooks, a Professor of Africana Studies at Brown University and author of 'Integrated: How American Schools Failed Black Children', dives deep into the complexities of school integration and its disappointing outcomes for Black students. She highlights the systemic issues that persist in American education, challenging misconceptions about integration. The conversation also touches on President Trump's controversial remarks regarding asylum seekers, blending humor with a sharp critique of political narratives and the disparities faced by marginalized communities.

Education experts Erik Anderson, Noliwe Rooks, and Derek Gottlieb discuss the intense push to privatize schools, the importance of defending public education in rural communities, and the significance of uniting to protect democratic establishments such as public schools. The podcast covers anecdotes, scholar contributions, and upcoming products related to their new book, The Education Wars.

Learn about the fascinating life of Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made woman millionaire in America. From her humble beginnings to founding her own booming haircare business, this episode delves into her journey to success, wealth, and philanthropy with insights from expert Professor Noliwe Rooks and comedian Athena Kugblenu.

Derek Black, a legal scholar and author of *Schoolhouse Burning*, and Noliwe Rooks, Chair of Africana Studies and author of *Cutting School*, discuss the critical links between democracy and public education. They explore how attacks on schools are often driven by fears of multiracial democracy gaining traction. The conversation delves into the historical cycles of educational and voting rights, the impact of wealth and philanthropy on policy, and how today’s culture wars undermine trust in public education. Both guests emphasize education's role in fostering a shared societal experience.